Suffolk Medical Society. Records, 1785-1789 (inclusive). B MS c76.4, Countway Library of Medicine.

The following Rules and Orders were examined and agreed on by the Members; at a Meeting of the Society, held for that purpose; at Dedham, Nov.r 7th 1785.

[written in pencil at bottom right corner] BMS C76.4

Health being one of the greatest Blessings bestowed on Mankind, it is the Duty and Interest of every one to endeavour its preservation when enjoyed, and restoration when lost: But as time and ability are not given to all sufficiently to examine the Animal [Economy?] to investigate the Cause and Cure of Dissorders, the Nature and Effect of Medicine ; these important Duties are more peculiarly incumbent on those who professedly practise the Healing Art.

As the Charge is important, and the Field extensive the readiest measures ought to be pursued to facilitate an Enquiry, and attain an adequate knowledge in what so

nearly affects the Happiness of Mankind.

Of the various methods of acquiring and diffusing Medical Knowledge, no one is more effectual, than a friendly Association of its Professors ; whose principal views in such Associations are to give and receive mutual improvement, to practise every liberal sentiment and universal Benevolence.

Such Associations must necessarily tend to eradicate many prejudices, and suppress many illiberal practices ; which have hitherto disgraced the Profession, and been of essential disservice to Mankind.

Fully impressed with a conviction of the truth and propriety of the foregoing comprehensive Observations; and to answer as

[handwritten in pencil, bottom right corner] BMS C76.4

much as in us lies those valuable purposes: We whose Names are hereunto annexed do form ourselves into an Association by the Name of "The Suffolk. Medical. Society."

And for the better regulation of said Society; We do establish the following Rules and Orders expecting an implicit observance by every Member.

1st. There shall be wo stated Meetings annually: viz. On the first Monday in November, and the first Monday in May: To be held at some convenient place within the County; the place of Meeting to be determined by a majority of Votes of the Members present at a stated Meeting, preceeding the proposed One.

Secondly. At the meeting in November there shall annually be chosen by Ballot a President, Secretary, and five counsellors: the Presdient and Secretary, ex Officies, being two of the five.

Thirdly. It shall be the Duty and Office of the President to attend all Meetings of the society as well occasional as states; to preside thereat to receive and put all regular seconded Mo tions, and give the casting Vote in all Questions which cannot otherwise be determined; and exercise such other Powers as he shall hereafter be vested with.

Fourthly. It shall be the Duty and Office of the Secretary to attend, if possible, all Meetings; and make and keep a fair Record of all the